Kicking Ball Down Field at YMCA Youth Soccer League

Thinking With Your Feet

Did you know that soccer players develop a more flexible cerebral cortex? The reason why: no hands! The average brain is wired to use our hands far more than other regions of the body. Since soccer focuses on the feet, it supports the plasticity of the human brain and its ability to learn and adapt through experience and training. Start your kid’s journey to a well-rounded brain through soccer!

Watch the video

 

 

 

 

Youth soccer player preparing to stop the ball

Motor Skills and Fancy Footwork

Playing soccer gives kids the chance to stretch their legs and their limits. Players learn fundamentals and improve their motor skills, as they build endurance and outstanding cardiovascular health. Kids practice dribbling, passing, shooting, and footwork skills, as well as concepts of offense, defense, and teamwork. Youth soccer teams participate in competitive games during each league session. Games are officiated by YMCA referees.

Throwing The Ball In Bounds at YMCA Youth Soccer

Sportsmanship, Strategy, and Fun

From a young age, children need to learn and understand how to give, take turns, and share – ultimately becoming good teammates. Soccer helps develop these important skills alongside helping players think ahead and quickly solve problems that benefit the greater team. Win or lose, soccer is fun and provides the space for players to laugh, collaborate, and meet other players on the pitch.

Youth soccer team in a team huddle

Empathy and Self Esteem

Soccer is an excellent sport to assist in enhancing self-esteem and confidence as they master soccer skills and self-reliance on the field. Kids learn that mistakes are OK, and how to easily and quickly move on from them. This builds resilience and helps them establish emotional regulation. In working with teammates, players learn to understand and trust one another which results in greater empathy through any milestone or challenge they experience.

 

Session Dates

Practices Start

 

March 27

League Season

 

March 27 - May 13

Games

Start
Saturday, April 8

 

End
Saturday, May 13

 

Eligibility and Pricing

League Divisions by Age

U5: Ages 3-4

U7: Ages 5-6

U9: Ages 7-8

U11: Ages 9-10

U13: Ages 11-12

Cost Information

 

$75 for Y members

 

$150 for community members

 

 

Become a Coach and Mentor

 

All teams are coached by volunteers. If you're interested in coaching, please reach out to the youth sports director at your local Y or apply to be a volunteer.

 

Make a Difference

 

YMCA soccer coach high fives player

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are games and practices?

Players participate in one practice during the week and one game each week. Games take place on Saturdays unless otherwise scheduled. U5 teams practice and games will be on Saturdays.

Gordon Family YMCA: Practices and games at Sumner Middle School

Mel Korum Family YMCA: Practices and games at Mel Korum Family Y

Lakewood Family YMCA: Practices and games at Harrison Prep and Four Heroes Elementary School

Morgan Family YMCA: Practices and games at Morgan Family Y

Tom Taylor Family YMCA: Practices and games at Tom Taylor Family Y

How long are practices and games?

Practices are 50 minutes to an hour. Games depend on the age division but are usually an hour. U5 teams practice and games are on Saturdays.

When does the league begin?

Practices begin the week of Monday, March 27

Games begin Saturday, April 8, and the league ends on Saturday, May 13, 2023.

Is there a picture day?

Yes, your youth sports director will send out that information well in advance so you can plan accordingly.

When is the game schedule available?

The game schedule will be sent out to all participants and coaches as soon as it is completed, but no later than the first week of practices.

What are the rules?

Rule sheets will also be sent out via email prior to the season.

Are soccer cleats required?

Proper shoes are recommended for U-9, U-11, and U-13, but not required.

What gear do kids need to bring?
  • Team T-shirt (provided)
  • Water
What is included in the cost?

A weekly practice and six games which are played on Saturdays. Participants receive a team shirt.

Can guests come to the games?

We invite all our players to bring along friends and family to cheer them on! Please invite guests to visit after filling out a Guest Pass. All guests will need to sign a waiver upon entry. Additionally, we require all guests 16+ to present a government issued ID (driver's license). The number of viewers permitted varies by community center and game/practice location based upon capacity.